The system adds barcode audit and data acquisition functions to automated packaging lines and, Cobalt says, "represents a highly practical and flexible packaging line management tool with the added benefit of full compliance with EAN and EU178 requirements".
Able to uniquely identify and retain a verification history for every product, the system also provides a controllable response mechanism that limits the volume of poorly coded or quarantined product allowed to pass.
Capable of high speed operation, the system reads, grades and records barcodes in real time, preventing poorly barcoded products from progressing into further packaging operations. Each reading is date and time recorded as the product leaves the labelling process. Individual packs are uniquely identified for removal or easier tracing subsequently.
Operators receive a graphic display of the current and average barcode read quality for easy, at-a-glance reference. Cobalt says reliability is then guaranteed by the system's ability to compare these readings against expected or minimum values and identify early signs of degradation.
